Psychological Determinants of Exercise Practice in Health Clubs and Gymnasiums: A Systematic Review in Adult Population

Over the last two decades, several reports, empirical studies, and theoretical constructs have drawn attention as relevant to understanding the persistently high dropout rates and low participation in health clubs and gymnasiums (HCG). In this context, the primary objective of this systematic literature review is to identify psychological determinants that tend to influence engagement and sustained commitment to exercising in health clubs and gymnasiums. The review process involved searching three databases (PubMed, SPORTDiscus, and Web of Science), and following the PRISMA guidelines. Initially, 6362 potentially relevant records were identified in the electronic databases, of which 380 articles were validated by title. After careful analysis, it was possible to select 49 studies, 16 of which met the inclusion criteria. Additionally, 2 more studies were included through the analysis of bibliographic references, totaling 18 studies that underwent a qualitative analysis. Results suggest that autonomous motivation, particularly intrinsic motivation, was positively associated with adherence and persistence in exercise programs. Additionally, individual motives (intrinsic vs. extrinsic), exercise habit, intention, enjoyment, and affective response were detected as potentially relevant psychological determinants influencing exercise persistence. Given the high heterogeneity of the studies, methods, and variables studied, caution is warranted when interpreting these results. Currently, there is insufficient evidence to adequately propose a strong focus of future research on the detected determinants, and more experimental, operational, and evidence-based approaches are needed to understand how to promote adherence to HCG.